Hackers break into company servers and steal customer information, including names, phone numbers, and social security numbers. According to Constella’s 2021 Identity Breach Report, over 12 billion personal records were exposed in data breaches throughout 2020. These records are often sold among criminals or exposed on the dark web for exploitation. Contact their customer service or fraud department through the appropriate channels, such as their dedicated fraud hotline or email address. Depending on the severity of the identity theft, your bank may recommend freezing or closing the affected accounts to prevent further fraudulent activity. While care providers like hospitals and clinics don’t need your social security number, it might help a fraudster access your medical insurance to get some of their bills (incurred while impersonating you) paid for.
IT security teams should develop and maintain a robust security awareness training program that educates users about the dangers of the dark web and its impact on business operations. Arming each user with consistent security awareness will reinforce cyber resilience and strengthen the organization’s security culture. Conduct automated scans of your computing environment frequently to identify, analyze, and mitigate risks. For example, a vulnerability scan can detect areas of the network that might be vulnerable to Common Vulnerability Exposure (CVE). Organizations conducting frequent security scans also allows IT teams to uncover zero-day vulnerabilities, unpatched devices, and other loopholes that threat actors can exploit.
“But I Don’t Shop Online”
It’s highly likely that a password, email address, or some other personal item has been stolen or accessed at some point, which is why it’s more important than ever to protect yourself. To find out if your information is on the dark web, use our free dark web scan. The dark web can only be accessed with a special internet browser called Tor, and it contains all manner of malicious websites, services and sellers.
Jobs And Making Money
And unfortunately, the recent incident in Oakland is not an isolated event.
What are three warning signs of identity theft?
- Bills for items you did not buy.
- Debt collection calls for accounts you did not open.
- Information on your credit report for accounts you did not open.
- Denials of loan applications.
- Mail stops coming to, or is missing from, your mailbox.
Contact Bank And Credit Card Companies
A dark web monitoring service can plug in your personal, vulnerable data and run surveillance across dark web sites and pages to see if it’s being used or sold. A dark web monitoring service can then provide alerts for when your sensitive information appears on questionable websites. The good news is you can help better protect against credit fraud with a security freeze (also known as a credit freeze), which stops creditors how to connect to the dark web from accessing your credit reports to open new credit accounts. So, if an identity thief tries to apply for a new credit card in your name, the credit card issuer won’t be able to see your credit reports, leading them to deny the application. It’s not uncommon for Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, credit card and bank account information, usernames and passwords, and medical records to be found there.
In recent years, the dark web has become a hotbed for criminal activity, including the sale of sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers (SSNs). With the ease of access to this information, it’s more important than ever to understand the dangers of dark web social security number theft and how to protect yourself.
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through traditional web browsers. It can only be accessed using specialized software, such as the Tor browser. The dark web is often associated with illegal activities, such as the sale of drugs, weapons, and stolen personal information.
How is Social Security Number Theft Facilitated on the Dark Web?
Is it safe to enter your SSN online?
Don't enter your SSN into your phone, laptop, or other devices. It would be rare for you to need your card. Typically, reciting the number is all that's required. Keep the number in your head and the card locked up at home.
Cybercriminals often obtain SSNs through data breaches, phishing scams, and other forms of cyberattacks. Once they have obtained this information, they can sell it on the dark web to other criminals who may use it for identity theft, fraud, or other malicious purposes. In some cases, the information may be sold in bundles, including other sensitive personal information such as birth dates, addresses, and financial account numbers.
The Dangers of Dark Web Social Security Number Theft
Having your SSN stolen and sold on the dark web can have serious consequences. It can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, and other forms of criminal activity. For example, a criminal may use your SSN to open new credit accounts, file tax returns, or even obtain medical care in your name. This can result in significant financial losses, damage to your credit score, and even legal issues.
- Just like with financial identity theft, you may not know someone else is profiting from you until you apply for social benefits yourself and get denied.
- Experian reports that around 5% of the American population is affected by identity theft each year.
- We alert you, so you can take action right away to change passwords and prevent or minimize the damage.
- Chychasov pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit access device fraud and trafficking in unauthorized access devices through the online scheme.
How to Protect Yourself from Dark Web Social Security Number Theft
What if my Social Security number is on the dark web?
Inform the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that your SSN has been found on the Dark Web and ask to file an identity theft report. Even if your information hasn't been used maliciously yet, filing a formal claim with the FTC can help you if you need to dispute fraudulent charges, accounts, or crimes.
There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from dark web social security number theft:
- Monitor your credit reports: Regularly check your credit reports for any suspicious activity. You can obtain a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus once a year.
- Use strong, unique passwords: Use a different password for each of your online accounts. Consider using a password manager to help you keep track of your passwords.
- Be cautious of phishing scams: Be wary of any emails or messages that ask for your personal information. Never click on links or download attachments from unknown sources.
- Consider a credit freeze: If you believe your SSN has been compromised, consider placing a dark web links 2024 credit freeze on your accounts. This will prevent anyone from opening new credit accounts in your name.
In conclusion, theft is a serious issue that can have significant consequences. By taking steps to protect yourself, you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim of identity theft and financial fraud.
What can I use instead of SSN?
ITIN. An ITIN, or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, is a tax processing number only available for certain nonresident and resident aliens, their spouses, and dependents who cannot get a Social Security Number (SSN). It is a 9-digit number, beginning with the number "9", formatted like an SSN (NNN-NN-NNNN).
